Discover

Our story

Built originally before the Civil War and completely remodeled in 1936 by the Cal Milam family, the Merrick Inn served as the Manor House for one of Lexington’s finest horse farms.  It was here, at Merrick Place, that Cal Milam and his groom, Mr. Johnson, trained the fabled "Exterminator," Kentucky Derby winner of 1918. Here also, Tut Tut, who won every race he entered as a two-year-old in 1920; and Komuraski, Commodore, Brown Wisdom, Miss Joy, Milkmaid, McKee, (winner of the National Stallion Stakes), and Dust Flower, who defeated Cartoonist and Messenger in the 1922 Flashstakes, started on their paths to fame and fortune. None of these thoroughbreds, however, gained such widespread fame as Merrick himself.          

Merrick finished in the money 157 times, winning 62 races. Merrick became a member of the Milam family, not only because of his success at the races, but also because he was "worthy in deeds  and noble  in  character"  - a  tribute to him etched by the Milams on his gravestone located in the shady circle just in front of the Inn. Merrick died in 1941 at the age of 38, the oldest of all thoroughbreds.  Merrick was truly a very special horse and his namesake a very special farm.          

We have been offering our guests the finest in traditional southern cuisine and personal service by our amazing staff for more than 43 years.  Times have changed, but we believe the beauty and charm of our Inn have been enhanced by the years of offering many good people the best of Kentucky traditions.  Thank you for dining with us.

Be informed on the latest Merrick Inn news. Sign up for our newsletter.

 

 

 

 

Hours of Operation

We are operating by reservation only at this time. Please call for reservations.

  • Sunday BRUNCH: 10 am - 3 pm
    DINNER: 4 pm - 9 pm
  • Monday DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
  • Tuesday DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
  • Wednesday DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
  • Thursday DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
  • Friday BRUNCH: 10 am - 3 pm
    DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
  • Saturday BRUNCH: 10 am - 3 pm
    DINNER: 4 pm - 10 pm
    COCKTAILS: 4 pm - 11 pm
 

Note – Reservations are available here on our website, thru Open Table or by calling.

 

Sunday Dinners

At Merrick Inn's Sunday Dinner, revel in elevated Southern comforts like classic fried chicken and steaks, all presented with our signature elegance, as you indulge within the beautifully remodeled confines of our historic manor house, where romance and Southern hospitality seamlessly blend.

Join us for dinner 4 PM - 9 PM.

Make your reservation today. Call 859.269.5417

 

 

 

Weekly Specials

The Merrick Inn has been synonymous with genteel, Southern dining for more than 40 years. Join us to create lasting memories with your friends
and family. 

Monday

Live music every Monday during Patio Season.

Wednesday

Our Famous Fried Chicken Night. Two pieces
of chicken, mashed potatoes and pan gravy
with your choice of two sides. 

brunch

BRUNCH

Friday, Saturday & Sunday please join us for a fine
dining experience featuring classic brunch favorites
in our beautifully renovated dining room.

Our Staff